Ahmed Hossam “Mido” has ignited a heated debate in Egyptian football and media circles following remarks he made on a recent podcast, questioning the decision-making process within the national team during its most successful period.
During the appearance, Mido discussed Egypt’s Africa Cup of Nations triumphs under former coach Hassan Shehata, suggesting that non-technical factors influenced squad selections. He claimed that “sheikhs” were involved in the team’s environment and implied that his exclusion from the AFCON 2010 squad came as a result of such interventions, despite his strong domestic performances at the time.
“They spoke about magic and red mercury. I was once asked to wear the number five. Before each match, our shirts and belongings were taken and sprinkled with water. Sheikhs would insist that certain players had to wear specific numbers,” Mido said.
His comments drew sharp reactions from former players, coaches, and analysts, with many viewing the statements as a personal grievance that cast doubt on collective achievements. The controversy emerged against the backdrop of heightened criticism from Egyptian football circles toward Morocco’s hosting of AFCON 2025. Commentators repeatedly questioned refereeing decisions, tournament management, and organisational choices, particularly following Egypt’s narrow 1-0 defeat to Senegal in the semi-finals.
Egypt’s head coach, Hossam Hassan, responded to the post-elimination scrutiny by referencing the team’s historic success, including its record seven AFCON titles, suggesting that Egypt’s presence near the final had unsettled other parties. Observers saw these remarks as attempts to deflect responsibility rather than evaluate on-field performance. Tensions were further amplified by issues surrounding stadium atmospheres, fan support, and interactions with Moroccan media, particularly ahead of Egypt’s third-place match against Nigeria.
In response to Mido’s podcast statements, Egypt’s Supreme Council for Media Regulation suspended him from all media appearances and launched an investigation.
The council stated that his remarks carried “insult and doubt” toward the national team’s achievements between 2006 and 2010—a period regarded as sacred in Egyptian football history. Media outlets were instructed to bar Mido from broadcasts until the investigation concludes, with a Complaints Committee set to hold hearings and recommend further action.
